What I Wish I Knew in My 20s

This is a conversation you need to hear, packed with life advice that will change your future. It’s what Mel wishes she knew in her 20s and the insight helping her guide her kids right now. Today, Mel sits down with Dr. Meg Jay. Dr. Jay is a clinical psychologist, professor, and bestselling author of THE book about your 20s: The Defining Decade. The New York Times called Dr. Jay "the patron saint" of 20-somethings, and today, you’re getting a coaching session with her. This episode is a wake up call, one backed byresearch and real-life stories, that will help you stop panicking, start problem-solving, and take control of your future, no matter what age you are. In this episode, you’ll learn: -The best advice no one ever told you about your 20s -The biggest mistakes most people make in work and love—and how to avoid them -Why 30 is not the new 20—and what’s actually at stake when you wait to “figure it out later” -Exactly what to do to support any 20 something in your life -Specific advice for college students and parents of college students Whether you’re in your 20s, wish you’d done them differently, or love someone going through them, this episode gives you the wisdom and tools you need to build the life you want. The truth is that no matter what decade of your life you are in, you can make it the best one – and this advice will help you do it. For more resources, click here for the podcast episode page. If you liked the episode, check out this one next: Feeling Lost in Your 20s? You Need to Hear ThisConnect with Mel:  Get Mel’s #1 bestselling book, The Let Them TheoryWatch the episodes on YouTubeFollow Mel on Instagram The Mel Robbins Podcast InstagramMel's TikTok Sign up for Mel’s personal letter Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes ad-freeDisclaimer

This episode will help you live a more peaceful and fulfilled life, even in a chaotic world. It's an invitation to pause, reset, slow down, and reconnect with yourself. And it’s a masterclass in how to release the tension you’re holding and unlock the calm, grounded confidence you’ve been craving – no matter what is happening around you. Joining Mel on the podcast is New York Times bestselling author and poet Diego Perez, also known as Yung Pueblo. Diego has sold almost 2 million books and inspires millions of people every day with his wise words of wisdom and healing. In this deeply honest conversation, he pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to stop running from your emotions and create a life filled with more love, peace, and purpose. You’ll learn: -How to protect your energy, without losing your compassion -3 simple habits that will reset your mind, your heart, and your life -Why embracing change is the fastest way to feel at peace -The truth about love, healing, and the relationships that actually last You’ll also learn why every relationship — especially the one with yourself — depends on your willingness to heal, grow, and embrace change. If you’re feeling stuck, disconnected, or ready for something deeper, this is your invitation to pause, reset, and finally trust yourself. For more resources, click here for the podcast episode page. If you liked the episode, check out this one next: Understanding This Will Change How You Experience Your Entire LifeConnect with Mel:  Get Mel’s #1 bestselling book, The Let Them TheoryWatch the episodes on YouTubeFollow Mel on Instagram The Mel Robbins Podcast InstagramMel's TikTok Sign up for Mel’s personal letter Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes ad-freeDisclaimer

Today, you’ll learn how to stop playing small and step into the bigger life that’s waiting for you. You’ll learn how to stop shrinking, stop explaining, and start claiming what you want without guilt, apology, or second-guessing. Whether you’re coming out of a breakup, burnout, or just a version of life that no longer fits, this conversation will show you how to reinvent yourself from the inside out. You’ll hear what happens when you finally give yourself permission to live life the way you really want. Because let’s be honest: How many times have you talked yourself out of what you want… before you even tried to go get it? That job. That conversation. That version of yourself you know you’re capable of being. You feel the pull. But then comes the doubt. And you quietly decide, “That’s not for me.” This episode is here to challenge that. And change it. Mel sits down with Chelsea Handler, one of the most successful comedians of all time, a six-time #1 New York Times bestselling author, and someone who’s spent decades breaking rules, saying exactly what she thinks, and reinventing herself in public. But this is not the Chelsea you think you know. This conversation is about the version of Chelsea you haven’t seen – the woman who’s done the inner work, faced down regret, and come out the other side with more clarity, peace, and power than ever before. You’ll laugh. You might cry. And you will absolutely see yourself in this. If you’ve ever walked through life thinking “that would be nice… but not for me,” that ends today. This is the permission slip you’ve been waiting for. You’ll learn: -How to let go of the expectations, labels, and roles that aren’t yours anymore -What it means to claim what you want – and actually go get it -The mindset shift that makes true confidence possible -How to stop managing everyone else’s comfort and start living for you -What it really takes to stop caring what people think -How to pick yourself back up after regret, loss, or failure This conversation will challenge you. It will surprise you. And it will make you think differently about what you’re actually capable of. You have a reservoir of strength that you don’t even know about, and today you’re going to learn how to tap into it. For more resources, click here for the podcast episode page. If you liked the episode, check out this one next: How to Stop Caring What People Think of YouConnect with Mel: Get Mel’s #1 bestselling book, The Let Them TheoryWatch the episodes on YouTubeFollow Mel on Instagram The Mel Robbins Podcast InstagramMel's TikTok Sign up for Mel’s personal letter Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes ad-freeDisclaimer

This is one of the single best conversations ever had on the podcast. Today, in honor of Dr. Jim Doty, Mel is sharing this episode on manifestation, neuroscience, and what’s truly possible when you unlock the power of your mind and heart.Dr. Doty was truly an extraordinary human being who lived an extraordinary life.He was a world-renowned Stanford neurosurgeon and neuroscientist, a New York Times bestselling author, a philanthropist, and the founder of the Stanford Center for Compassion and Altruism Research. He also served as the chairman of the Dalai Lama Foundation.Dr. Doty recently passed away, and this conversation – recorded before his death — is part of his legacy. It is one of the most shared, listened to, and beloved episodes in the history of the podcast.In it, he explains the science behind manifesting and visualization: why it works, what’s happening in your brain, and how to do it effectively.He also dives deep into the science behind creating the life you want, explains why your negative self-talk is holding you back, and how you can reprogram your brain using simple yet powerful tools rooted in neuroscience.Whether you’ve heard this episode before or it’s your first time, Mel invites you to listen to this episode and to honor Dr. Doty by carrying his wisdom forward. His words will open your mind to the extraordinary possibilities of your life.For more resources, click here for the podcast episode page. To honor Dr. Doty’s memory and see how his life touched so many, you can visit his memorial page here. If you liked the episode, check out this one next: Life Is Short (How to Spend It Wisely)Connect with Mel:  Get Mel’s #1 bestselling book, The Let Them TheoryWatch the episodes on YouTubeFollow Mel on Instagram The Mel Robbins Podcast InstagramMel's TikTok Sign up for Mel’s personal letter Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes ad-freeDisclaimer

In this episode, you’ll discover how your childhood shaped who you are today—and the hidden parenting mistakes that impact every relationship you have. You’ll also learn tools for excellent parenting and how to improve any relationship, including with your own parents, siblings, partner, kids, and friends. Joining Mel today is Dr. Aliza Pressman, PhD. Dr. Pressman is a world‑renowned developmental psychologist, professor at Mount Sinai, director of The Mount Sinai Parenting Center, and author of the New York Times bestseller The 5 Principles of Parenting. For over two decades, she’s been teaching parents practical science‑backed tools to raise emotionally healthy, resilient kids—and to become better, more grounded humans in the process. Today, Dr. Pressman breaks down 5 principles that will change how you parent forever. You’ll hear the research on how early experiences shape who you become, why oversacrificing for your kids backfires, and the surprising ways criticizing your partner or ex can quietly wound your child for life. You’ll also learn protocols for excellent parenting and how to improve relationships of all kinds, from setting boundaries that actually work, to repairing after you’ve lost your cool, to strengthening your child’s inner voice by changing the way you talk to yourself. This isn’t just about raising kids. It’s about learning how to be a better human (and raise one too). Whether you’re parenting toddlers, teenagers, or adult children—or simply trying to understand the impact your own parents had on you—this conversation will give you clear, actionable tools you can use immediately. For more resources, click here for the podcast episode page. If you liked the episode, check out this one next: Harvard Psychologist Shares 6 Words That Will Change Your FamilyConnect with Mel:  Get Mel’s #1 bestselling book, The Let Them TheoryWatch the episodes on YouTubeFollow Mel on Instagram The Mel Robbins Podcast InstagramMel's TikTok Sign up for Mel’s personal letter Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes ad-freeDisclaimer

Today’s episode is a deeply honest conversation about what it takes to let go of mistakes, forgive yourself, leave your past in the past, and create a new version of you. In this moving episode, Mel sits down with her friend Carl Lentz, a former megachurch pastor, who watched his life implode in real time. Carl doesn’t dodge the truth: His actions shattered trust, cost him his career, and nearly destroyed his family. But this is not a story about scandal. It’s about what you do after the worst moment of your life. It’s about the courage to face what you’ve done, to stop running, to forgive yourself — and to rebuild something stronger from the wreckage. Carl doesn’t pretend to have it all figured out. What he offers is honesty without excuses, wisdom forged in pain, and a raw invitation to stop letting your past dictate your future. If you’ve made mistakes, if you’re struggling to forgive someone, if you're trying to put the pieces back together, this conversation will meet you right where you are. Because you are not your worst moment. And your next chapter is still yours to write. For more resources, click here for the podcast episode page. If you liked this episode and want to know more about how to write that next chapter, listen to this episode next: How to Find Your Purpose & Design the Life You WantConnect with Mel:  Get Mel’s #1 bestselling book, The Let Them TheoryWatch the episodes on YouTubeFollow Mel on Instagram The Mel Robbins Podcast InstagramMel's TikTok Sign up for Mel’s personal letter Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes ad-freeDisclaimer

Today’s episode is the cheat sheet you’ve been waiting for.If you're confused by all the conflicting health advice – from keto to vegan, biohacking, to hormone tracking – this is your reset. Mel did the heavy lifting for you, analyzing 53 conversations with the world’s leading health experts to pinpoint exactly what matters most for your health, energy, and longevity. The result? 3 simple, science-backed habits that every single expert agrees are the most important for your health and happiness.You’ll hear directly from:-Dr. Eric Topol, one of the most renowned health researchers in the world, on how exercise can reverse your biological age. -Dr. Vonda Wright, top orthopedic surgeon and women’s health expert, with a simple, no-cost workout plan you can do at any age with no gym required. -Dr. Shefali, top clinical psychologist, on how your devices are stealing your time, energy, and peace of mind, and what to do about it -Dr. Laurie Santos, the top professor at Yale and a happiness expert, on the surprising secret to happiness — and better health. Forget complicated routines or expensive supplements. If you’ve ever thought, "Could someone please just tell me what works?", consider this your answer. For more resources, click here for the podcast episode page. If you liked the episode, you’ll love the full episodes with each of the doctors interviewed today:Dr. Eric Topol: Advice From the #1 Longevity Doctor: Add 10 Years to Your Life With 3 Simple HabitsDr. Vonda Wright: Look, Feel, & Stay Young Forever: #1 Orthopedic Surgeon’s Proven ProtocolDr. Shefali: You Learn This Too Late: This One Idea Might Change Your Entire LifeDr. Laurie Santos: The Science of Well-Being: Powerful Happiness Hacks That 5 Million People Are UsingConnect with Mel:  Get Mel’s #1 bestselling book, The Let Them TheoryWatch the episodes on YouTubeFollow Mel on Instagram The Mel Robbins Podcast InstagramMel's TikTok Sign up for Mel’s personal letter Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes ad-freeDisclaimer

In this episode, you’ll learn the secret to getting anything you want in life. You’ll also learn how to build unshakable self-confidence, turn rejection into fuel, and push through doubt to create a life you're proud of. Today, legendary film producer Will Packer is here to help you create a blockbuster life. He is one of the most successful producers and filmmakers in the world, with ten #1 box-office hits and over $1 billion in ticket sales. Will pulls back the curtain on how he thinks, how he moves through fear, and what it really takes to make it in any industry, on your own terms. You’ll learn:-How to use rejection as redirection -Why you don’t need all the answers before you start -The #1 mindset shift that helped Will bet on himself -What every dreamer needs to hear about failure, detours, and self-worth -The surprising strategy behind Will’s biggest career leap -How to stop overthinking and start building the life you want This isn’t just a conversation about success. It’s a masterclass in trusting yourself, doing the work, and building a career – and life – you believe in. For more resources, click here for the podcast episode page. If you liked the episode, check out this one next: A Process for Finding Purpose: Do THIS to Build the Life You WantConnect with Mel:  Get Mel’s #1 bestselling book, The Let Them TheoryWatch the episodes on YouTubeFollow Mel on Instagram The Mel Robbins Podcast InstagramMel's TikTok Sign up for Mel’s personal letter Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes ad-freeDisclaimer

If you’re exhausted, barely keeping it together, and quietly wondering when you’ll feel like yourself again… this episode is your lifeline. Maybe you’re the one who keeps the house running. The one everyone calls in an emergency. The one who knows takes care of everyone including medications, the bills, doctor visits, and the schedules.The one who stays up late searching for answers, and gets up early to make sure everyone else is okay. You don’t complain. You don’t slow down. But you’re running on fumes. And no one sees it. You feel invisible. Like you are losing yourself. Like you’re going through the motions in a life that used to feel like yours. Mel is talking to you in this episode. Whether you’re raising kids, managing a household, supporting aging parents, a sick family member, or all of the above, taking care of others can slowly wear you down and make you feel like you don’t even know yourself anymore. In this powerful and deeply validating conversation, Mel sits down with three world-renowned experts, all of whom are doctors as well as caregivers,  to give you the truth, the tools, and the hope you need to finally come up for air. You’ll hear from: -Dr. Aditi Nerurkar, Harvard physician and stress researcher, on why chronic caregiving stress is not your failure, it’s a public health crisis -Dr. Pooja Lakshmin, psychiatrist and bestselling author, who’ll teach you how to set guilt-free boundaries and reclaim a sense of control over your life -Dr. Rangan Chatterjee, physician and bestselling author, whose deeply personal story will show you how to stop disappearing into caregiving, and start living again This episode is not about pushing harder. It’s about finally pulling back in a way that actually helps. You are not alone.You are not failing.And you are not here to disappear.So press play, and let this episode take care of you for once.For more resources, click here for the podcast episode page. If you liked the episode, you’ll love the full episodes with each of the doctors interviewed today:Dr. Aditi Nerurkar: If You Struggle With Stress & Anxiety, This Will Change Your LifeDr. Pooja Lakshmin: Focus on Yourself: 3 Signs You’re Giving Too Much & What to Do About It Right NowDr. Rangan Chatterjee: Change Your Body & Your Life in 1 Month: 4 Small Habits That Actually WorkConnect with Mel:  Get Mel’s #1 bestselling book, The Let Them TheoryWatch the episodes on YouTubeFollow Mel on Instagram The Mel Robbins Podcast InstagramMel's TikTok Sign up for Mel’s personal letter Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes ad-freeDisclaimer

After listening to this episode, your brain will not be the same. In this episode, you’ll learn how to stop negative thoughts, heal from past trauma, and reset your mind for peace, focus, and resilience. Today, neuroscientist Dr. Caroline Leaf is here to share her evidence-based, 5-step Neurocycle method that has helped millions take control of their mental health – and will help you take your power back.Dr. Caroline Leaf is  a world renowned cognitive neuroscientist, and a pioneer in the science of neuroplasticity, which is the study of how your brain changes based on how you use your mind. For nearly 40 years, Dr. Leaf has been at the forefront of cognitive neuroscience, researching how you can reprogram the way your brain works by using your thoughts. What she teaches is life-changing: You can train your brain to work for you, not against you.You’ll learn:-How to break the cycle of overthinking and self-sabotage-What trauma really does to your brain  and how to heal it-The surprising difference between your brain and your mind (and why it matters)-The 5-step daily practice that helps you rewire any thought patternThis isn’t just a conversation about mindset. It’s a masterclass in the science of unlocking the power of your brain.For more resources, click here for the podcast episode page. If you liked the episode, check out this one next: How to Stop Negative Thoughts & Reset Your Mind for Positive ThinkingConnect with Mel:  Get Mel’s #1 bestselling book, The Let Them TheoryWatch the episodes on YouTubeFollow Mel on Instagram The Mel Robbins Podcast InstagramMel's TikTok Sign up for Mel’s personal letter Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes ad-freeDisclaimer